Introduction
Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is a private Christian liberal arts university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. It was founded in 1899 as a Bible school and has since evolved into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. While many people may be familiar with SNU, there are still many interesting facts about this university that are not widely known. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun facts about Southern Nazarene University that you may find surprising and enlightening.
SNU’s Historical Roots
SNU’s roots can be traced back to the Pentecostal Holiness Church in Texas, which founded Bethany-Peniel College in 1906. The school moved to Bethany, Oklahoma in 1910 and eventually merged with Oklahoma Nazarene College in 1920 to become Southern Nazarene College. In 1986, the name was changed to Southern Nazarene University to reflect its growing academic programs.
One of the interesting facts about SNU’s history is that it was one of the first institutions of higher education in Oklahoma to admit women on an equal basis with men. This was a progressive move for the time, and it helped pave the way for women’s education in the state.
Another interesting fact is that SNU was originally founded as a Bible school, and its Christian roots are still evident in the university’s mission and values. However, SNU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide range of academic programs while still maintaining its commitment to Christian principles.
Notable Alumni and Faculty
SNU has produced many notable alumni and faculty over the years. One of the most famous alumni is Steve Largent, a former NFL player and politician. Largent played for the Seattle Seahawks for 14 seasons and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995. He later served as a U.S. Representative from Oklahoma from 1994 to 2002.
Another notable alumnus is Jim Gash, who earned his law degree from Pepperdine University after graduating from SNU. Gash went on to become the Dean of Pepperdine’s School of Law and is known for his work in promoting access to justice for the poor in Africa.
SNU has also had many distinguished faculty members, including Dr. Charles H. Kraft, a renowned anthropologist and linguist who has written extensively on Christian spirituality and cross-cultural communication. Another notable faculty member is Dr. J. Harold Greenlee, a New Testament scholar who is known for his work on biblical translations and textual criticism.
Campus Life and Traditions
SNU has a vibrant campus life and many traditions that are cherished by students and alumni alike. One of the most beloved traditions is the annual “Crimson and Cream” homecoming parade, which features floats, marching bands, and student organizations.
Another popular tradition is the “SNU Christmas” event, which features a tree-lighting ceremony, caroling, and a live nativity scene. This event brings together the SNU community and is a festive way to kick off the holiday season.
SNU also has a strong athletic program, with many sports teams competing at the NAIA level. The school’s mascot is the Crimson Storm, and the sports teams are known for their competitiveness and sportsmanship.
Campus Facilities and Architecture
SNU’s campus is known for its beautiful architecture and well-maintained facilities. The centerpiece of the campus is the administration building, which was built in 1920 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Another notable building is the Royce Brown Business Building, which houses the School of Business and is named after a former SNU president
who helped to expand the university’s academic programs. The building features a state-of-the-art trading room and is equipped with the latest technology to prepare students for careers in business and finance.
SNU’s campus also features a variety of recreational facilities, including an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center. The university’s library is another notable facility, featuring over 200,000 volumes and access to numerous online databases and resources.
Community Service and Outreach
SNU is committed to serving its community and promoting social justice. The university has a strong service-oriented culture, with many opportunities for students to get involved in community outreach programs and volunteer work.
One example of SNU’s community outreach efforts is the “Project Transformation” program, which provides literacy and enrichment opportunities for children in low-income communities. SNU students serve as mentors and tutors for these children, helping to improve their reading skills and self-esteem.
Another example is the “Urban Missions” program, which provides students with the opportunity to engage in community service projects in urban areas. This program allows students to learn about social justice issues and gain valuable skills in community organizing and advocacy.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we’ve explored some fun facts about Southern Nazarene University. From its historical roots to its notable alumni and faculty, vibrant campus life, beautiful architecture, and commitment to community service and outreach, SNU is a unique and special place that has made a positive impact on countless individuals over the years. If you’re considering attending SNU or just want to learn more about this wonderful institution, we hope that this post has been informative and enjoyable.